Page 353 - Accounting Information Systems

324 PART II Transaction Cycles and Business Processes

Islands of Technology
Islands of technology describes an environment in which modern automation exists in the form of islands
that stand alone within the traditional setting. The islands employ computer numerical controlled (CNC)
machines that can perform multiple operations with little human involvement. CNC machines contain
computer programs for all the parts that are manufactured by the machine. Under a CNC configuration,
humans still set up the machines. A particularly important benefit of CNC technology is, however, that
little setup time (and cost) is needed to change from one operation to another.
Computer-Integrated Manufacturing

Computer-integrated manufacturing (CIM) is a completely automated environment with the objective
of eliminating non–value-added activities. A CIM facility makes use of group technology cells composed
of various types of CNC machines to produce an entire part from start to finish in one location. In addi-
tion to CNC machines, the process employs automated storage and retrieval systems and robotics. CIM
supports flexible manufacturing by allowing faster development of high-quality products, shorter produc-
tion cycles, reduced production costs, and faster delivery times. Figure 7-17 depicts a CIM environment
and shows the relationship between various technologies employed.

AUTOMATED STORAGE AND RETRIEVAL SYSTEMS (AS/RS). Many firms have increased
productivity and profitability by replacing traditional forklifts and their human operators with automated
storage and retrieval systems (AS/RS). AS/RS are computer-controlled conveyor systems that carry raw
materials from stores to the shop floor and finished products to the warehouse. The operational advan-
tages of AS/RS technology over manual systems include reduced errors, improved inventory control, and
lower storage costs.

ROBOTICS. Manufacturing robots are programmed to perform specific actions over and over with a
high degree of precision and are widely used in factories to perform jobs such as welding and riveting.
They are also useful in hazardous environments or for performing dangerous and monotonous tasks that
are prone to causing accidents.

FI GU RE
7-17 COMPUTER-INTEGRATED MANUFACTURING SYSTEM

Design Phase Execution Phase
Engineering Manufacturing Work Centers

Raw
CNC AS/RS Stores
Materials

CAD
Work Design Human AS/RS Finished Warehouse
Station Software Database Labor Goods
CELL

CAM Multiple AS/RS Raw Stores
Software CNC Materials

Finished
Robotics AS/RS Warehouse
Goods